Kibaki devastated by Saitoti, Ojode deaths

President Mwai Kibaki has described Internal Security Minister Geroge Saitoti and his assistant, Orwa Ojode's deaths as devastating loss to Kenya.

President Kibaki said Prof Saitoti, Mr Ojode and four others were killed when a Police chopper crashed in Kibiku area in Ngong forest at 9am on Sunday.

"The deaths of the six Kenyans is a devastating loss to our country. On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya I send my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and relatives of the six Kenyans. Minister Saitoti will forever be remembered as a hardworking and determined public servant who dedicated his time to the service of the Kenyan people," said Mr Kibaki.

"The Hon Orwa Ojode will be remembered for his focused approach while undertaking his duties with great zeal and determination as an Assistant Minister and the Member of Parliament for Ndhiwa Constituency," said the President.

Kibaki: deaths of Saitoti, Ojode and four others a devastating loss to Kenya

The two were heading to Orwa Ojode's Ndhiwa Constituency for a church fundraising activity.

It's exactly four years when a chopper carrying MPs Kipkalya Kones and Lorna Laboso crashed in Narok.

According to an eye witness, the helicopter was seen diving from the sky and full of smoke before crushing and exploding into flames.

"The Chopper was filled with smoke before it crashed. I heard two explosions as it went up in flames," said Rose Kwamboka.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi has sent a heartfelt message of condolence to the families, relatives and friends of Prof George Saitoti and Orwa Ojodeh.

The DPM said the accident was horrendous and shocking.

Following the crash, the DPM has cancelled all planned political campaign engagements that would have seen him address supporters at Ziwa, Chepkoilel, Iten, Tabach, Kabarnet and Mogotio.

DPM broke the news to a shocked crowd at Kitale Bus Park on his way to Nairobi to condole with the rest of the cabinet.

The DPM said Kenyans should remain calm at this time of sorrow when the nation is mourning the great loss.

He termed the two nationalist and devoted public servants who have lend great service to Kenyans.